The Nigerian Air Force, NAF, has destroyed terrorists’ structures at Abbaga Jiri in the Timbuktu Triangle area of Borno State.
The operation, carried out on January 8, 2026, was conducted by NAF aircraft operating under the Joint Task Force of Operation Hadin Kai.
In a statement on Thursday, the NAF spokesman, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, said the air strikes followed actionable multi-source intelligence confirming the presence of terrorists, their structures and concealed logistics facilities in the area.
He explained that air assets were deployed in integrated surveillance and precision strike roles to engage the identified targets.
“The operation was deliberately designed to degrade terrorist capability, deny sanctuary and shape the battlespace for ground forces, in strict adherence to the rules of engagement and protection of non-combatants,” Ejodame said.
According to him, the terrorists’ structures were decisively destroyed, while a follow-up strike neutralised armed elements seen converging on the location.
He added that subsequent advances by ground troops into the area confirmed the effectiveness of the air strikes and the success of the joint air–land operation.
Commenting on the operation, the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, said the success of the mission reflected the Air Force’s resolve to dominate the air domain in support of joint operations.
“This operation demonstrates our unwavering commitment to delivering precise and decisive airpower in support of ground forces. We will continue to deny terrorists freedom of movement, sanctuary and logistics wherever they seek to hide,” Aneke said.
He reaffirmed that NAF air operations would remain relentless and intelligence-driven until terrorist networks are dismantled.
